The good news is that it stopped raining by the time I got out of my sleeping bag (coincidence? maybe). The bad news is that it had rained enough where I was hiking through miniature waterfalls most of the day.

It was a rough 5 miles to the next shelter, and I arrived there in the early afternoon. After debating whether or not to go on, the cold and wet persuaded me to stay. I figured it was best, given the idea that the other shelters could be full by the time I arrived, and I would have to set up my bivy in the rainy mud. Either way, I am glad I stayed. Hooch caught up with me, a fellow American Literature enthusiast, and I met some new faces.

Most of the afternoon was spent eating and such, but I did have some time to write, which was a rare pleasure. I am hoping it isn’t as rare in the near future, and if that means hiking less miles each day, so be it. I would much rather spend more time on the trail and get more writing done.

Well, it’s been raining off and on, and even if it does clear up tomorrow, I am prepared for muddy trails again. I hope to make it to Clingman’s Dome tomorrow, but again, no need to push. I will simply see how I feel and where the day goes.

That’s all for tonight. Oh, and I did get a few compliments on my haircut, the new Firewalker look. Thanks to my brother, Jake.